Home > Arts > Artists > T > John Tenniel
Between Two Terrors, 1873. Artist: Joseph Swain
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
Between Two Terrors, 1873. Artist: Joseph Swain
Between Two Terrors, 1873. (White and Red). Louis Adolphe Thiers, the first President of the Third Republic, is being embraced by a pleading France. To the right is the threatening figure of Communism, and to the left the shrouded, unaccountable figure of Monarchy. Lately, Thiers position as President had become impossible. He had been endeavouring to steer a course between the left-wing demands of Leon Gambetta and the right-wing demands for a restoration of the monarchy. Thiers had been a major political figure in French politics for some forty years, but now, even though many still believed he was the only man capable of saving France from further internal disturbance, he resigned his office in October 1873. From Punch, or the London Charivari, October 18, 1873
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 14831676
© The Print Collector / Heritage-Images
Communism Dagger Heritage Image Partnership John Tenniel Joseph Swain Louis Adolphe Louis Adolphe Thiers Pleading President Shroud Sir John Tenniel Swain Tenniel Thiers Third Republic Threatening Allegorical Figure
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> T
> John Tenniel
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Politics
> Related Images
Between Two Terrors, 1873
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a powerful and thought-provoking print that captures the political turmoil of its time. The artist, Joseph Swain, skillfully depicts the complex situation faced by Louis Adolphe Thiers, the first President of the Third Republic in France. In this allegorical representation, we see Thiers being embraced by a pleading France. To his right stands Communism, a threatening figure symbolizing left-wing demands for radical change. On his left looms Monarchy, shrouded and unaccountable, representing conservative forces pushing for a restoration of the old regime. Thiers finds himself caught between these two terrors as he tries to navigate a path that satisfies both sides. However, his position becomes untenable as their demands grow more extreme. Despite being seen by many as the only person capable of saving France from further internal disturbance, Thiers resigns from office in October 1873. The print serves as social commentary on the challenges faced by leaders during times of political upheaval. It highlights how difficult it can be to find balance and appease opposing factions with divergent ideologies. Swain's engraving masterfully captures the tension and uncertainty of this era through intricate details such as weaponry held by various figures and the pleading expression on France's face. This black-and-white artwork not only reflects historical events but also showcases Swain's artistic prowess in conveying complex ideas through visual storytelling. Overall, "Between Two Terrors" remains an enduring testament to political struggles within society while reminding us of our shared history and its impact on shaping our present world.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.
